Looking for Bongo

by written and illustrated by Eric Velasquez

For the child who has ever felt the panic of a lost favorite toy and needs a gentle, loving reminder of how to retrace their steps with family help.

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About This Book

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the distress of a lost possession or needs a gentle lesson in patience and problem-solving. This story follows a young boy named Wynton as he searches his home for Bongo, his missing stuffed dog. Through beautiful oil paintings, the book explores themes of perseverance and family cooperation. It is an ideal choice for children ages 4 to 8 because it validates their big emotions while modeling a calm, methodical approach to finding a solution. Parents will appreciate the warm, multigenerational household setting and the way it celebrates Afro-Latino culture through subtle details and language.

Love & Family Mystery Resilience & Perseverance Celebrating Heritage Family & Siblings Curiosity & Wonder Cultural Identity Art & Creativity

What Parents Should Know

Sad ThemesMild

Temporary distress over a missing toy is the central conflict.

Sensitive Topics

The book deals with the mild anxiety of a lost toy. The approach is realistic and secular. The resolution is hopeful and reinforces family bonds and the concept of sharing.